Dynamic Simulation

We have completed a simulation program based on the derived dynamics of the robot. When the mechanical design is completed it will be imported into the software. The various controllers can now be developed and tested within the simulation.

Initial Design Explorations

We have been developing multiple CAD models of the robot system. Here are a few early versions where the pendulum does not have a full 360 degree range of motion from side to side.

We have since moved away from this system in favor of an omnidirectional capable design. We'll post those models soon.

Wooden Pendulum Structure (Gabe Bentz, 2015)

A plywood pendulum structure. Considered for its cost and manufacturing benefits was one early direction based off of the initail conceptual design. though, chunkier, it ensured that all budget constraints would be met. 

Hybrid Material Linear Actuator Design (Gabe Bentz, 2015)

A complete pendulum mechanism composed of aluminum and wood was later created. This system utilized a linear actuator to attain the side motion of the pendulum. It was going to use the actuator to pull cables which would swing the pendulum from side to side. This methodology put the weight of the motor used for side to side motion at the end of the pendulum which helped ensure the pendulum bob had the mass requirements to provide enough torque

The complete system can be viewed below inside of a complete sphere (The material of the Sphere is carbon fiber, the material was modified in CATIA in order to make it transparent)

Complete system for simulation with a Carbon Fiber Sphere (Gabe Bentz, 2015)

 All of these designs were rejected in favor of an omni-directional system, so none were completely detailed.

Final Conceptual Design Document

Incurve Robotics has completed is final conceptual design document. This documents outlines the general system the team will pursue to meet the requirements.

This document can be found at Incurve Conceptual Design Document

The team will spend the next week completing the specifications document for the system.

Team Begins Conceptual Designs

Design for wooden super-structure of spherical prototype
(Gabe Bentz)

Team Incurve has begun individually generating conceptual designs for several different implementations of the outdoor exploration robot. It has been generally accepted to pursue the spherical design though that is not set in stone.

Some of the concepts put forward for the spherical design have been the use of pistons to push the robot along, control moment gyros, and the traditional use of a pendulum changing the center of gravity.

Scale reference for wooden prototype design
(Gabe Bentz)

The team will spend the next week developing any concepts individually. Once presented, all ideas will be evaluated for viability in regards to the design requirements.

Concept for "pusher" concept
(Narendran Muraleedharan)

Design Requirements Document

The Incurve team has completed the design requirements document. The document will be the basis for all future design decisions.

Incurve Design Requirements